The Nokia 6210 Navigator and 6230i represent a golden era of mobile phones – durable, feature-rich, and instantly recognizable. Both phones offer a nostalgic experience, but which one holds up better today? Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Nokia 6230i generally edges out the 6210 Navigator due to its slightly improved camera and potentially better software updates (though information is scarce). However, the 6210's robust build and GPS make it a strong contender for outdoor enthusiasts. It's a close call!
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | - |
| EDGE | - | Class 10 |
| GPRS | - | Class 10 |
| Speed | HSPA 3.6/0.384 Mbps | - |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM |
| | HSDPA 850 / 1900 - American version | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2008, February. Released 2008, July | 2005, Q1 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 103 x 49 x 14.9 mm, 89 cc (4.06 x 1.93 x 0.59 in) | 103 x 44 x 20 mm, 76 cc (4.06 x 1.73 x 0.79 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 117 g (4.13 oz) | 99 g (3.49 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~167 ppi density) | 208 x 208 pixels, 1:1 ratio (~196 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.4 inches, 17.8 cm2 (~35.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 1.5 inches, 27 x 27 mm, 7.3 cm2 (~16.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT, 16M colors | TFT, 65K colors |
| | - | 5-way navigation key
Downloadable wallpapers, screensavers |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | 369 MHz ARM 11 | - |
| OS | Symbian OS 9.3, S60 rel. 3.2 | - |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | - | 20 dialed, 20 received, 20 missed calls |
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | MMC, up to 512 MB |
| Internal | 120MB 128MB RAM | 32MB |
| Phonebook | - | 1000 entries, Photo call |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | 3.15 MP, AF | 1.3 MP |
| Video | 480p@15fps | QCIF |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | Videocall camera | - |
| | - | No |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Alert types | Vibration; Downloadable polyphonic, MP3, AAC ringtones | Vibration; Downloadable polyphonic, MP3, AAC ringtones |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| | 2.5 mm audio jack | - |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.0, A2DP | 1.2 |
| Infrared port | - | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, A-GPS; Nokia Maps | No |
| Radio | Stereo FM radio, RDS | Stereo FM radio |
| USB | miniUSB 2.0 | Pop-Port |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | WAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML | WAP 2.0/xHTML |
| Games | - | 3D Golf, Street Racer, Backgammon + Downloadable |
| Java | - | Yes, MIDP 2.0 |
| Messaging | - | SMS, MMS, EMail, Instant Messaging |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, compass | - |
| | WMV/RV/MP4/3GP player
MP3/WMA/WAV/RA/AAC/M4A player
Document viewer (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, PDF)
Predictive text input
Voice command/memo
Push to talk
Organizer
Printing | Electronic wallet
Predictive text input
Organizer
Voice dial
Voice command
Profile Selection |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 220 h (2G) / 240 h (3G) | Up to 300 h |
| Talk time | Up to 3 h 40 min (2G) / 2 h 48 min (3G) | Up to 5 h |
| Type | Removable Li-Ion 950 mAh battery (BL-5F) | Removable Li-Ion 900 mAh battery (BL-5C) |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Red | Silver Grey, Black , White |
| Price | About 150 EUR | - |
| SAR | 0.83 W/kg (head) 1.05 W/kg (body) | 0.81 W/kg (head) 0.62 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | 0.76 W/kg (head) | 0.70 W/kg (head) |
| Tests |
|---|
| Loudspeaker |
Voice 65dB / Noise 65dB / Ring 72dB | - |
| OUR TESTS |
|---|
| Loudspeaker | Voice 65dB / Noise 65dB / Ring 72dB | - |
Nokia 6210 Navigator
- Rugged and durable build
- Integrated GPS functionality
- Excellent battery life
- Classic Nokia design
- Basic camera
- Limited app support
- Slower processor compared to modern phones
Nokia 6230i
- Slightly better camera (potentially)
- Potentially better software updates (unconfirmed)
- Classic Nokia design
- Good battery life
- Limited app support
- Slower processor compared to modern phones
- Specs are less readily available
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 2.0-inch QVGA display. While resolution is similar, the 6230i might have slightly improved color reproduction and viewing angles due to potential display panel refinements. However, both are adequate for their time.
Camera Comparison
The Nokia 6230i generally had a slightly better camera, often featuring a 2-megapixel sensor compared to the 6210's 1.3-megapixel. Image quality on both is limited by the technology of the time, but the 6230i's camera is generally considered a bit better.
Performance
The Nokia 6210 Navigator boasts a 369 MHz ARM 11 processor. The 6230i's processor is unknown, but likely similar or slightly faster. Expect basic performance suitable for calls, texts, and simple apps, but don't expect blazing speed. Both will feel dated by modern standards.
Battery Life
Battery life was a strong point for both devices. Expect several days of moderate use on either phone. The 6210 Navigator might have a slight edge due to its slightly smaller size and potentially lower power consumption, but both offer excellent battery performance.
Buying Guide
The Nokia 6210 Navigator is ideal for those seeking a rugged, GPS-enabled phone for outdoor adventures or a reliable backup device. The Nokia 6230i is a better choice for users prioritizing a slightly better camera and potentially a more refined user experience (assuming it received updates).
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are these phones still worth buying?
If you're looking for a nostalgic experience or a durable backup phone, yes! However, don't expect modern smartphone features.
❓ Can I use these phones with a modern SIM card?
Yes, they support standard SIM cards. However, network compatibility may vary depending on your carrier and region.
❓ Do these phones have internet access?
Yes, they support basic internet access via GPRS or EDGE, but speeds are very slow by today's standards.
